A Greener Organic Industrial Base

The article discusses the U.S. Army's efforts to make ammunition production more environmentally sustainable by reusing waste products. It highlights the concept of "byproduct synergy," where waste materials from explosive manufacturing are converted into valuable chemicals that can be reused in production, reducing reliance on foreign materials and cutting waste disposal costs.

Read Time: < 5 mins

The Green Machine

The article discusses the newly updated Army Regulation 70-1, which serves as the cornerstone for the U.S. Army's acquisition policy, now streamlined to support rapid and flexible acquisition. It highlights the regulation's role in accelerating the delivery of critical military capabilities and advancing the Army's digital transformation. The article emphasizes the importance of tailored approaches and creative acquisition strategies, such as the use of the Simplified Acquisition Management Plan (SAMP) and the Middle Tier of Acquisition, to speed up processes while maintaining flexibility. These updates are pivotal to the Army's ongoing modernization efforts, ensuring Soldiers receive necessary resources more quickly.

By the Army Acquisition Executive Douglas R. Bush

Read Time: < 13 mins

Prevention is the Best Defense

The article discusses the environmental challenges posed by "forever chemicals" in military munitions and the introduction of the TRND (Trend) database tool. The TRND tool helps the U.S. Army assess supply chain risks and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. It highlights efforts to balance military needs with environmental responsibility, focusing on the impacts of hazardous chemicals like PFAS and hexavalent chromium. The article also emphasizes proactive measures to mitigate environmental risks in future munitions production.

By Cheryl Marino

Read Time: < 9 mins

Acquisition Book of Knowledge

The article discusses the newly updated Army Regulation (AR) 70-1 and its impact on the U.S. Army's acquisition process. AR 70-1, which governs the Army's Adaptive Acquisition Framework (AAF), introduces policies designed to speed up the delivery of critical capabilities, encourage creative and flexible acquisition approaches, and support the Army's digital transformation efforts.

By Anthony M. Taylor

Read Time: < 10 mins

From Open to Closed

The article discusses the U.S. Department of Defense's (DOD) shift from traditional open burning and open detonation (OB/OD) methods for disposing of munitions to more environmentally friendly and controlled closed disposal technologies. Historically, OB/OD has been the primary, cost-effective way to safely demilitarize excess and obsolete munitions, freeing up storage space and reducing safety risks. However, recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations and scientific findings suggest that safer alternative technologies are available for many explosive waste streams.

By James Terhune